In the previous blog, we focused on the importance of applying kinaesthetic learning opportunities in the overall educational agenda. This week we shall explore the critical issue of developing social interpersonal abilities. Introduction to the social Interpersonal focus Social interpersonal learning is an educational approach in which it is acknowledged that many students learn more effectively from interaction with other students and sharing ideas. It is characterised by a

In the blog last week , we reviewed the auditory approach to teaching. This week we shall explore the importance of the application of a kinaesthetic learning style. Introduction to the kinaesthetic style This is an approach in which educators acknowledge that some students learn most effectively through physical activities and hands-on experiences. In contrast to the auditory and visual teaching styles, such students are highly motivated when they can touch, move, and intera

In the blog last week , we focused on the logical analytical approach to student learning including the essential element of the development of critical thinking. This week, we shall explore the challenges of the classical auditory learning method that has been a central component of all teaching across time in all cultural contexts. Introduction to the auditory approach to teaching students The auditory teaching style is used by educators to support students who prefer heari

In the blog last week , we evaluated the importance of introducing new concepts, theories, and models in various forms of visual images such as charts and mind maps. This week we shall explore the logical analytical approach to student learning. Introduction to the logical analytical style In this style students are guided to logically engage with new information, ideas, arguments and models systematically. The primary focus is an evaluation of the significance, validity, and

In the blog last week , we focused on the classical approach to student learning based on developing language abilities specifically in relation to reading, writing, and a variety of note making techniques. This week we will explore an increasing reliance on visual images by educators designed to initially introduce students to unfamiliar complex concepts, models, theories, arguments, and processes. The primary purpose of visual images in the learning process Especially in hi

In the blog last week , we explored an overview of the seven most common approaches to teaching. This week we shall evaluate the classical teaching method based on the development of language competencies, especially those of guided critical reading and academic writing. The classical focus on language development abilities Across cultures and throughout the history of higher education, there has consistency been a primary focus on language abilities, especially the progressi

In the blog last week , we examined the influence of the concepts of individualism and collectivism on learning preferences across cultures. This week we shall explore an introductory overview of the seven most common approaches to teaching in a higher educational context. Introduction to the topic It is generally agreed that there are seven common approaches to teaching across university faculties. I have listed these in my own logical order from reading, writing, listening

In the blog last week , we evaluated the influence of power distance relationships on educational issues in a cross-cultural context. This week we shall explore the Hofstede dimension contrasting collectivist versus individualistic cultural contexts while maintaining our focus on key aspects of the educational system. The cultural concept of collectivism versus individualism The Hofstede dimension focusing on the contrast between collectivist and individualistic cultural cont

In the blog last week , we explored the cultural onion model developed by Hofstede focusing on the consequences for educational systems. This week we shall evaluate the impact of the cultural dimension of large and small Power Distance relationships in a learning context. The cultural concept of Power Distance Power Distance (PD) is the extent to which members of societies accept, respect, or even expect differences in power relationships. Then, the power distance ratings can

In the blog last week , we focused on the teacher-centred approach to education in contrast to the student-centred style. This week we shall explore a model of culture developed by Hofstede prior to evaluating how specific cultural dimensions shape the contrast between educational systems across cultures. Defining and evaluating culture First, Hofstede argues that culture can be defined as ‘the collective programming of the mind that distinguishes the members of one group or

In the blog last week , we explored the meaning, objectives, and application of the term student-centred learning. This week we shift to examine the contrasting style of the teacher-centred approach that is almost uniformly dominant outside of the cluster of English-speaking nations. What is meant by the term teacher-centred learning The term teacher-centred learning (TLC) describes a method in which educators occupy the central position in the learning acquisition experience

In the blog last week , we explored a brief overview of our new topic of teaching methods and learning styles. This week we shall examine the model of student-centred learning situating the promotion of this style primarily within the context of the English-speaking cluster of nations. The central aims of student-centred learning Within the English-speaking nations (ESNs), a preference for student-centred learning (SCL) has become an almost unchallengeable pedagogical orienta

In the blog last week , we concluded our series on groups and teams by evaluating the reasons why some people dislike working in any collective context. This week, we begin our journey on the new topic of teaching methods and learning styles with a brief overview of the series. Introduction to the series Across this series, we shall explore a range of teaching methods and learning styles commencing with an evaluation of a broad range of teaching approaches in the blog next we

In the blog last week , we evaluated the ways in which teamworking can help develop improved task and relationship abilities. This week, in the conclusion to this series, we will explore the reasons why some people dislike working in a team context. Reasons why some people dislike teamworking There are multiple reasons that can explain why some people prefer to work more individually rather than in a collaborative setting such as teams. Mediating factors include personality,

In the blog last week , we examined the importance universities place on the development of teamworking skills and attitudes. This week we will explore how working in a team context can significantly enhance both task completion and relationship building abilities. As we have observed over previous weeks while examining the topic of groups and teams, one of the primary reasons why organisations prioritise teamworking is that they constitute the setting for the acquisition of

In the blog last week , we evaluated the issue of team roles based on the Belbin theory. This week we are going to explore why universities in the English-speaking nations prioritise student engagement in a variety of team-based learning challenges. The value of developing teamwork skills From the perspective of the educators, the specific learning outcomes arising from the development of teamworking skills at university are typically expressed as follows: To learn essential

In the blog last week , we examined the challenge of developing matrix team leaders. This week we shall explore the importance of team role behaviour based on the Belbin theory that is widely implemented in numerous organisations in diverse cross-cultural contexts. Understanding the Belbin team model Belbin developed his team role theory based on research at Henley Management Centre in the UK. He identified that successful teams are composed of people with a diverse mix of be

In the blog last week , we explored the key stages in the development of teams. This week we shall examine the most challenging step of training several individuals in the complex skills required to effectively lead a matrix team. According to recent research, for example by Global Integration , a specialist training provider, 90 percent of the FTSE 50 and Fortune 50 companies operate in a matrix structure. This style is structure where teams work across functions and member

In the blog last week , we evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of working in either groups or teams. This week we will explore the key stages in the development of teams. While working effectively in a group requires the constant guidance of competent management, teams need to be developed through a challenging process that is based on five stages. Moreover, experienced trainers are fully aware that the successful transformation from a group to a team style is never gu

In the blog last week , we examined the key differences between groups and teams. This week we shall explore some of the advantages and disadvantages of functioning successfully in both styles. Though requiring different skills, behaviour, and attitudes, working successfully with others in either a group or team context can be equally demanding as well as rewarding. What follows is an introductory overview the primary advantages and disadvantages of both styles. The charac